“As part of William Grant & Sons, it makes sense for us to assume control of these brands in the UK,” said Mason.

Maxxium UK, the sales and distribution alliance for the Edrington Group and Beam Global Spirits & Wine Inc, will cease to distribute the former C&C brands from early September.

Maxxium UK managing director Huw Pennell said: “It was inevitable that at some point these brands would move to First Drinks, but it now enables us to give greater focus to our own premium portfolio strategy.

“We are proud of the work we have carried out on Tullamore Dew, Carolans and Irish Mist in the UK and we wish them every success for their continued development in the future,” said Pennell.